Wireless Network Adapter

Without a doubt, the internet is one of mankind’s greatest inventions. Though naysayers decry the excesses of spam email, pop up ads, and the endless scams that the internet has helped perpetuate, nobody can deny that the internet has made some very positive changes in our lives. Some people even go so far as to say that the internet should be free and accessible for everyone, and some cities, towns, businesses, schools, libraries and other likeminded organizations have made that possible by offering free wireless internet. Basically, anyone with a laptop computer can go to these locations and pick up a free internet signal. The only catch? To get on the internet for free, your computer needs a small electronic device called a wireless network adapter.

Luckily for those interested in taking advantage of free internet access, most newer model laptop computers come with a wireless network adapter installed on board. Not sure if your computer has one? Consult the manual or tech support on how to find it. If you know that your computer has a wireless network adapter but you are still unable to access internet in public, be sure that you wireless network switch is in the own position. Depending on your laptop model, the switch will be located somewhere on the exterior of the computer, and will likely be accompanied by a picture resembling an antenna.

If you own an older model laptop, it is quite possible that you will need to look into alternatives when it comes to wireless network adapters. But never fear. The free, publicly accessible internet is not out of your reach. Plenty of electronics companies make external wireless network adapters, and installing certain models of wireless network adapters in a laptop is just about as easy as plugging in a data cable.

You do need to make some preparations before purchasing a wireless network adapter. First, check your computer for an available universal serial bus (USB) port. If you have one, you are all set. If not, you can buy a USB hub or add an internal USB adapter which will allow you to have more USB ports on your computer.

When you have a USB hub in place, it is relatively simple to install your own wireless network adapter. A wireless USB network adapter is probably the easiest to install, and for that reason, they are the most popular wireless network adapters. Why? Because all you have to do is head down to your local electronics store and buy one, and then plug it directly into your free USB port. On the other hand, perhaps you feel that the USB adapter is too large and want something a little more portable and easy to travel with. In that case, you can install a wireless CardBus or CF network adapter (also called a PCMCIA card).

Desktop users may also want to capture wireless internet. Perhaps you have a router set up at home, or want to connect to a wireless network at the office. In that case, you may want to install an internal wireless network adapter. This alternative may be handy for you because desktop computers often have fewer USB ports for your peripherals and you may want to save those extra ports for another accessory. Desktop computers also have more room for additions and upgrades to the motherboard. In order to save space and keep a laptop small and light, they have quite a bit less room for upgrades than desktop computers. No matter which route you choose, if you decided to modify the inside of your computer, be sure to contact a professional if you do not feel comfortable doing the work yourself.

This Wireless Network Adapter Review is Written/Updated
on Jul 12th, 2009 and filed under Computer Hardware.
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